Our special Christmas fund that inspires 1000s of smiles – year after year
For more than 70 years, our Christmas legacy fund has brought warmth and joy to older almshouse residents across the country. Its origins trace back to the remarkable generosity of Major Alfred Ernest Allnatt, a successful businessman, philanthropist and long-standing friend of our founding General Secretary, Leonard Hackett.
Major Allnatt left a special Christmas legacy to ensure that almshouse residents aged 90 and over would receive a personalised Christmas gift each year. He asked that his involvement remain a secret until his passing in 1969 but his kindness has continued to shine every Christmas.
Thanks to his thoughtful gift and the careful stewardship of The Almshouse Association, this tradition still flourishes today. Each Christmas, nonagenarian residents receive a small gift voucher, a gesture that brings delight, dignity, and connection during the festive season. Last year alone, we sent out 693 vouchers, and we are often touched to receive photographs of residents proudly holding their Christmas gifts, which we share in our Gazette and on our website. This year, the number has grown to 815!
This enduring act of generosity is a powerful reminder of how one gift can touch countless lives.
Helping this tradition live on
As residents are living longer, and as demand grows, we now face increasing pressure to maintain this treasured tradition. The value of the vouchers has already had to be reduced to £15, and the Association currently meets an annual shortfall to keep the fund going.
To ensure this wonderful legacy continues for future generations, we warmly invite those who believe in the spirit of community, compassion and neighbourliness to support the Christmas Fund. Every contribution, large or small, directly helps us continue delivering a moment of joy to residents who have reached this special milestone age.
Your support will help keep Major Allnatt’s legacy alive spreading smiles each Christmas and honouring the values that define almshouses across the country.
If you would like to help sustain this tradition, please consider supporting the Christmas Fund today by contacting Almshousesupport@almshouses.org
posted 3 December 2025